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The Rosary has often been called the Irish Catechism. In 1879, several people reported seeing Mary, the Blessed Mother, at the side of a church in Knock, Ireland. When word of the vision spread, pilgrims began coming to the site to pray. From that time, the rosary was known as “The Irish Catechism” and Mary was given the title, “Our Lady of Knock”

The Celtic Crucifix developed from the ancient sun cross. According to legend, St. Patrick made changes to the sun cross and developed today’s Celtic Crucifix.

The reverse of the Celtic Crucifix refers to the Irish heritage with the word “Erin”.

The center of the rosary has another Irish symbol, the claddagh.

The claddagh symbolizes friendship, love, and loyalty. The circle of hands represents friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown stands for loyalty.

The green beads of the rosary are imprinted with shamrocks.

The Celtic Crucifix and Claddagh Rosary symbolize the strength of Irish faith.

To learn more about Irish rosaries, refer to pages 89 to 92 of The Rosary Collector’s Guide.

The Rosary Collector’s Guide, a 152 page hardcover reference book published by Schiffer Books, is available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, the Catholic Faith Store Online, and other online sellers, book stores, and religious article stores. The Rosary Collector’s Guide contains over 200 color photographs of rosaries, crosses, crucifixes, and center medals. It provides their history and helps collectors identify unique religious articles.

Gloria Brady Hoffner and Helen Hoffner, authors of The Rosary Collector’s Guide, are often able to bring their collection to show to church groups, school groups, and community organizations. To arrange a presentation or ask a question about rosaries, contact them at rosarycollector@aol.com